Function of Piezoelectric Accelerometers

Piezoelectric accelerometers rely on the piezoelectric effect of quartz or ceramic crystals to generate an electrical output that is proportional to applied acceleration. The piezoelectric effect produces an opposed accumulation of charged particles on the crystal. This charge is proportional to applied force or stress. A force applied to a quartz crystal lattice structure alters alignment of positive and negative ions, which results in an accumulation of these charged ions on opposed surfaces. These charged ions accumulate on an electrode that is ultimately conditioned by transistor microelectronics.